Polish Lecture Series

Lady Blanka RosenstielIn 2010, The American Institute of Polish Culture, Inc., in collaboration with the Miami-Florida Jean Monnet Center of Excellence established the Polish Lecture Series at Florida International University in Miami. Inaugural year lecturers included Professor Timothy Snyder of Yale University, Professor Padraic Kenney of Indiana University, and President Lech Walesa. Topics range from history, economy, politics, art, and culture.

  • Fall 2023 Lectures

    Nov. 15, 2023 | 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM* | FIU-MMC-SIPA-II-Pavilion, room 102

    A New Role in New Europe: Poland’s Strategic Priorities and Challenges

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    Since the war in Ukraine began, Poland has been pivotal in the international effort to repel Russian aggression. From humanitarian engagement to military assistance, Polish authorities, nongovernmental organizations, and ordinary citizens have proven proficient and resilient in light of novel challenges. Its unwavering support for Ukraine and unique geopolitical position have put the spotlight on Poland’s rising clout in both NATO and the European Union.

    Speaker:

    polish-ambassador.jpgAmbassador Marek Magierowski, who graduated from the Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznan with a degree in Hispanic Studies, was a journalist for over 20 years. He served as deputy head of the economic desk at Gazeta Wyborcza, head of the foreign affairs desk and the business section at Newsweek Polska, and deputy editor-in-chief of Forum and Rzeczpospolita. In 2015, he joined the Chancellery of the President of the Republic of Poland and was subsequently appointed Head of the Press Office of the Chancellery of the President. In 2017-2018, he served as Undersecretary of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and from 2018-21, was Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Poland to the State of Israel.


     

    Nov. 15, 2023 | 6:30-8:00 p.m. | FIU-MMC-Green School Gallery

    THE UNCAPTIVE MIND "Nie zniewolony umysł " Art Exhibition Opening Reception

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    Art Exhibition Opening Reception Wednesday, November 15 | 6:30 PM Green School Gallery

    Original Polish posters from the 1950s to 1980s exhibition shown for the very first time in Miami

    The Polish School of Posters (1950s to 1980s) stands as an artistic marvel and a testament to human ingenuity – a vibrant, creative, and innovative movement that brilliantly infused vivid colors, subliminal messages, and sharp wit into posters.

    With state financial support and artistic encouragement, graphic artists designed strong, original, individualistic images – often intended to surprise, provoke, or disturb viewers' beliefs and values. They frequently used camouflage and commonly understood ironies to communicate secretly with the public and subversively comment on the rigid Soviet communist regime.

    The "Uncaptive Mind" collection showcases Polish posters from that era, epitomizing a remarkable tribute to artistic freedom and a powerful contrast to Czeslaw Milosz's "The Captive Mind." From circus to film posters, the exceptional fusion of artistry, intellect, and cultural resonance of the work showcased the unbreakable spirit of the human mind, influencing generations and setting an unparalleled standard in graphic design.

  • Spring 2022 Lectures

    March 10, 2022 | 6:30 p.m. - 85:00 p.m. | Books and Books Coral Gables | Book Presentation

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    john-pomfret.jpg"From Warsaw, With Love" describes how special forces operatives from Poland were carefully chosen and sent to seamlessly rescue six U.S. intelligence officers during Operation Desert Storm in Iraq in 1990. Pomfret's delineation of this particular mission examines how two nations - who were once at odds - were able to establish a new frame-work via this unique 'blood bond' which occurred through the most inconceivable circumstances.

    Mr. Pomfret discussed the book & entertained a few questions from guests. The presentation was followed by a wine reception.

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  • Fall 2021 Lectures

    Nov. 8, 2022 | 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. | Virtual | Polish Haitian Entanglements

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    Join the Green School for an exploration of the transnational connections between Poland and the Global South, Haiti in particular. The historical background that underpins this investigation begins with Napoleon Bonaparte in 1802. From 1802 to 1805, Napoleon dispatched about 5000 Polish legionaries to Saint-Domingue, modern-day Haiti, as part of his massive effort to contain the slave rebellion that had arisen in 1791. However, a group of Polish soldiers opposed Napoleon’s efforts to subjugate the rebels. Consequently, these soldiers unwittingly took part in the creation of the world’s first black-led republic and first independent Caribbean state when it cast off French colonial control and slavery in the early 19th century.

    Opening Remarks:

    David J. Kramer
    Director, European and Eurasian Studies Program
    Senior Fellow, Václav Havel Program for Human Rights and Diplomacy

    Guest Speakers:

    Edouard Duval Carrié
    Contemporary artist and curator based in Miami, Florida.

    Dr. Jacek J. Kolasiński
    Founding Director of the Ratcliffe Incubator of Art + Design
    FIU College of Communication, Architecture + The Arts
    Associate Professor of Art in the Department Art + Art History
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    To view flyer, click here

    To watch Video Recording, click here

  • Scholarships

    APPLICATIONS DEADLINE: EXTENDED TO AUGUST 1st, 2021

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    The American Institute of Polish Culture, Inc. is offering two scholarships to students for 2021-2022. The grants are given to students from variety of majors and academic disciplines.

    The Harriet Irsay Scholarship Award

    The American Institute of Polish Culture is accepting applications for the 29th season of the Harriet Irsay Scholarship Award. This year, the brightest and most well-rounded students in America will receive $1,500. Now is the time to prepare your application documents and get them to the American Institute of Polish Culture Inc.

    For Application, click here
    For Requirements, click here
    Application Deadline: July 24th, 2021 - Extended to August 1st, 2021

    For more information on Mrs. Harriet Irsay and her commitment to the Institute and to her Polish heritage, click here

    Since the launch of the program, in 1992, over $275,000 has been awarded to 330 students from all over the country.

    For more information go to the website: https://ampolinstitute.com

    The Lennox Family Excellence Award

    The Lennox Family Award for Excellence will begin in the 2021 – 2022 school year by granting a $1,500 scholarship to a student pursuing a degree in education. This specialty recognition allows to identify students who are already proving they have what it takes to be top teachers, administrators, and policy makers who will effect meaningful and long lasting changes in American schools.

    For Application, click here

    For Requirements, click here

    Application Deadline: July 24th, 2021 - Extended to August 1st, 2021

    For more information or any questions, contact the American Institute of Polish Culture Inc. at assistant@ampolinstitute.com or info@ampolinstitute.com

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